Despite Downpour, Seagate Residents Rebuild Playground Destroyed By Sandy

Even the threat of Hurricane Joaquin won’t stop these volunteers.

Clad in rain ponchos, Councilman Mark Treyger and State Assembly hopeful Pamela Harris joined a group from the Sea Gate Association today to help build a new playground at Sea Gate’s Lindy Park – all in one day.

“The inclement weather may have been unpleasant, but it was not a deterrent,” wrote Treyger on Facebook. “Rather, it inspired and motivated, serving as a reminder for why we were all there in the first place: Superstorm Sandy and the damage it caused in our communities.”

The community’s children have been deprived of an outdoor play space since 2012, when Superstorm Sandy devastated Lindy Park and destroyed its playground.

Since it is a private community, the residents of Sea Gate were unable to use public funds to rebuild the recreational space. Treyger spoke to KaBoom! about parks across the 47th district that were damaged by Sandy, and Disney and KaBoom! generously stepped in to give community kids a place to be outside and breathe fresh air.

With the help of Sea Gate Association’s volunteers, the playground — which is based on drawings created by the community’s kids in July — is expected to become a reality before the sun goes down today.

“I am proud to be a part of an effort that will enrich the lives of the community’s children by giving them a fun, healthy, and safe place to play,” said Treyger. “The playground will hold special significance to these kids, because the project makes good use of their imagination, ingenuity, and creative talent.”

Local residents also expressed their thanks, and said the playground will be a welcome addition for the neighborhood’s families.

“The Sea Gate Association is grateful to receive this brand new playspace,” said Barbara Garofalo, Vice President of Sea Gate Association. “Thanks to Disney and KaBOOM!, we can help children and their families find opportunities to spend quality time together.”